Advocacy

Obstacles arise every day that threaten the Appalachian Trail. We're here to protect it.

protecting the a.t. experience

We care about protecting the experience we all have while hiking the Appalachian Trail (A.T.). Along with our partners, we are charged under the National Trails Act to ensure that the scenic vistas and natural and cultural heritage of the Trail corridor is protected forever.

We have lobbied for dedicated funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund since 1972. Through our advocacy efforts and partnerships with the U.S. Forest Service, the National Park Service and multiple state agencies, more than $180 million dollars has been appropriated to secure a land base for the ​A.T. and to protect landscapes near the Trail.

threats

Incompatible development near the A.T. threatens the intent of a national scenic trail as outlined in the National Trails Act. Such development potentially impacts the hiking experience and fragile landscapes surrounding the Trail. These developments may include expanded electric transmission corridors, new or expanded highways and roads, and poorly sited industrial wind farms and large scale natural gas pipelines, among others.

We work to educate local leaders about these threats to the Trail in an effort to avoid or mitigate negative impacts. We also work closely with state and federal agencies to ensure effective policies are developed to protect Trail resources.

Calling for Funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund

Your voice is critical to ensuring that LWCF will continue to permanently open access to America’s public lands and protect the places where Americans go to enjoy the great outdoors. Tell Congress to reauthorize the Fund now!

hike the hill

Senior conservation staff visit congressional offices and agency staff ​every year as part of the annual Hike the Hill event, a joint effort by the American Hiking Society and the Partnership for the National Trails System. Our goal: keep the A.T. on everyone’s radar and ensure that high priority land protection projects are supported. We also supported re-authorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and full annual funding of that program.

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The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.